IGas Energy is inviting applications to its annual community fund, which supports a range of local good causes located near its operational sites.
Local voluntary and community groups working in areas of Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Cheshire, Manchester and parts of Scotland close to where IGas operates can apply for funding. Grants will be awarded in spring 2015.
For the first time, groups with projects near new IGas operation sites at Ellesmere Port and Upton Heath, both in Cheshire, and Lound in Nottinghamshire can also apply.
Past projects supported by the fund include local nature reserves, clearance of footpaths, environmental schemes to encourage recycling and waste reduction, new or improved playground facilities for young children, initiatives focused on teenagers and the provision of facilities for older people.
IGas Energy plc is one of the UK’s leading onshore hydrocarbon producers, delivering natural gas and crude oil to the energy market. The community fund was established to contribute to the wellbeing of communities that may be impacted by the company’s activities. Over the past six years, the fund has delivered some £500,000 worth of grants to help local communities located near to IGas exploration and production sites. Decisions are made by a panel which includes several independent members with experience of community initiatives.
Community and voluntary organisations that are charitable, educational or benevolent in purpose can apply for grants of between £1,000 and £15,000. Groups do not have to be a registered charity, but they must demonstrate a need for their project, that it benefits the community and that it provides value for money. Local schools may also apply for funding.
Andrew Austin, Chief Executive Officer, said:
“We set up this fund so that we could make a valuable contribution to the communities where we operate.
Over the past few years we have been able to help a significant number of local groups, who are making a real difference by running pioneering projects in their neighbourhoods.
We look forward to receiving this year’s applications and to helping many more worthwhile causes.”
Projects should make a difference to life in the communities where IGas operates. IGas welcomes applications from organisations running projects that involve:
- A broad span of the community
- Children and young people
- Vulnerable people
- Community regeneration
- Self-help groups
- Environmental and wildlife projects
- Education and skills development
- Health
- Heritage
- Sustainability.
For full details on the fund, including eligibility guidelines and an application form, visit:
www.igascommunityfund.co.uk
The deadline for applications is 31 January 2015.
Media enquiries
0203 675 6059, media@igasplc.com